Venice holidays

How to reach Venice

Venice is well connected by air, with direct flights from Dublin and other Irish airports landing at Venice Marco Polo Airport, the main international hub located about 13km from the city. The flight time from Ireland is around 2 hours 30 minutes.

Transfer to the city centre: The Alilaguna water bus is a scenic and relaxing way to reach central Venice, taking around 60–70 minutes to St. Mark’s Square and costing approximately €15. The express land bus to Piazzale Roma is quicker at 20 minutes and costs about €8. Taxis are available, and private water taxis offer a direct, premium option for around €100, depending on the route.

Price of transport options: For getting around once in Venice, public water buses (vaporettos) are the most convenient. A single ticket costs around €7.50, while multi-day passes are available for better value if you're planning to explore more. Private water taxis are expensive but ideal for door-to-door service, especially if travelling with luggage.

Best time to visit Venice

Spring (March to May) brings comfortable temperatures from 9°C to 21°C and blooming gardens, making it a lovely time for sightseeing with smaller crowds.

Summer (June to August) is peak season, with warm temperatures reaching up to 28°C. It’s the busiest time of year with festivals, long daylight hours and lively atmosphere, but also higher prices and queues at top attractions.

Autumn (September to November) offers fewer tourists, cooler temperatures from 11°C to 24°C and the chance to see Venice’s canals cloaked in early morning mist — ideal for photographers.

Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, with temperatures between 1°C and 11°C. While you’ll need to bundle up, it’s a magical time to explore the city without the crowds — and perfect for those interested in the Venice Carnival.

Practical information for Venice holidays

Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. A few basic Italian phrases will go a long way.

Local habits and customs: Politeness is appreciated, so greetings like "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" are the norm. Modest dress is required when visiting churches.

Tips: A service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Security: Venice is safe for tourists, but do keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas such as vaporetto stops and markets.

Health: Tap water is safe to drink. No vaccinations are required for travel from Ireland. Travel insurance is recommended for peace of mind.

Papers and visa: Irish citizens can travel to Italy freely with a valid passport. No visa is required as both countries are EU members, and Irish travellers can stay as long as they like.

Currency: The Euro (€) is used. ATMs are easy to find, and credit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels.

Getting around: Venice is best explored on foot or by vaporetto. Cars are not allowed beyond Piazzale Roma, so plan to walk or use water transport throughout your stay.

Electricity and plug types: Italy uses 230V electricity with plug types F and L. Irish travellers will need a standard European adapter.

Best things to do in Venice

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Campanile di San Marco (St Mark's Campanile): The bell tower in St Mark's Square offers breathtaking views of Venice's terracotta rooftops, bustling piazzas and sparkling blue lagoon beyond. On a clear day, it's even possible to spot the distant Alps.

• Fondaco dei Tedeschi Rooftop Terrace: This viewpoint is free to access and provides stunning vistas of the Grand Canal and historic city centre.

The best districts

• San Marco: The beating heart of Venice, it's home to the iconic basilica and bustling St Mark's Square.

• Dorsoduro: Venice's university district is known for its galleries. Find classic Venetian masterpieces at the Gallerie dell'Accademia, and modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

• Cannaregio: This less touristy district is full of local life, quaint trattorias and the historic Jewish Ghetto.

Parks and gardens

• Giardini della Biennale: These public gardens are particularly lively during the Venice Biennale, when they're filled with international art and architecture displays.

• Parco delle Rimembranze (Park of Remembrance): A serene spot perfect for a picnic, this park offers lush greenery and a break from the bustle of the city centre.

Historical monuments

• Basilica di San Marco (St Mark's Basilica): A marvel of Byzantine architecture, this basilica is famous for its opulent design and golden mosaics.

• Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace): Once the heart of political life in Venice, this Gothic palace is now a museum showcasing the city's history and art.

• Rialto Bridge: This iconic symbol of Venice is the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal. It's also a popular spot for photos.

Day trips in the area

• Murano and Burano: These nearby islands are famous for their artisan glass and lace-making. Just a short vaporetto ride away, they offer a colourful escape from the mainland.

• Lido di Venezia (Lido of Venice): Perfect for sunny days, the Lido combines sandy beaches with a more relaxed pace of life. It's situated just a short boat ride from the city.

Activities for families in Venice

• Gondola rides: The classic, must-do Venetian experience. Gondola rides are a fantastic way for small groups and families to see the city from a different perspective. Engage the kids by letting them help choose the route.

• Interactive museums: The Leonardo da Vinci Museum has hands-on exhibits based on the artist's inventions, promising a stimulating experience for curious minds young and old.

• Workshops: Join a mask-making workshop at Ca'Macana, where children can create and decorate their own Venetian-inspired masks – a perfect souvenir to take home.

• Aquariums: Small but charming, the Tropicarium Park offers an aquarium experience with tropical and oceanic zones that are sure to fascinate the little ones.

• Exploring public squares: Places like Campo Santa Margherita are bustling with local life and often have open spaces where kids can run around while parents pause for drinks at a nearby café.

• Beach day on Lido: If you're visiting during the summer months, a day trip to the Lido provides a beach escape where families can swim, build sandcastles and relax by the sea.

Free things to do in Venice

• Free events: Venice's events calendar is brimming with free activities. Enjoy the world-famous Carnevale, a visual feast of costumes and masks that transforms the city every winter. Summer also brings free concerts and open-air performances.

• Free sites: Many churches in Venice, like the majestic Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute (Basilica of St Mary of Health), are free to enter, while others like the iconic Santa Maria dei Miracoli (St Mary of Miracles) charge a small fee.

• Explore Venice by public transport: Wander the city on foot to truly capture its essence. The vaporetti (water buses) cost a few Euros, but exploring the main areas like Cannaregio or along the Grand Canal by foot is completely free.

• Free guided tours: Look out for tip-based walking tours offered by various organisations that provide fascinating insights into the history of Venice. They cover everything from the mystical tales of the Venetian Republic to the architectural wonders that define the cityscape.

Wellness in Venice

• Spas and thermal baths: Venice might lack the thermal baths of other Italian cities, but it certainly compensates with luxurious spa experiences. Many high-end hotels offer spa services that include massages and facials, as well as wellness treatments that use local ingredients like algae and sea salt.

• Traditional body care: Embrace the Venetian way of relaxation by visiting one of the local beauty salons for a rejuvenating treatment. Try a body scrub using natural ingredients, or let a soothing massage ease your muscles after a long day spent walking the city.

• Yoga and meditation centres: For those looking to find a moment of peace in the bustling city, there are several yoga studios offering classes. Practising yoga or meditation in a studio overlooking the canals is a perfect way to relax and reflect amidst the historic beauty of the city.

Nature and outdoor activities in Venice

• Boating: Exploring the canals by hiring a paddle boat or kayak is a peaceful way to see the city from a different vantage point. Embrace a slower pace while appreciating the architecture and local life of these famous waterways.

• Beach activities: A short trip to the Lido, situated within the Venetian Lagoon, offers a chance to relax on the beach, swim or even try some light sailing or windsurfing.

• Cycling on the Lido: Rent a bike and explore the Lido's beaches, pine woods and quaint streets with fewer crowds and an ever-refreshing sea breeze.

The best beaches in Venice

While Venice itself is renowned for its historic canals and architecture, the Venetian Lagoon and the nearby Adriatic Sea offer beautiful beach escapes. Whether you're looking for a bustling public beach or a more secluded spot with amenities, the Venice area has plenty to offer.

• Public Beaches: The Lido di Venezia is the most famous beach area, easily accessible by vaporetto (water bus) from Venice. It offers a long stretch of sandy beach open to the public, perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming in the Adriatic Sea.

• Private Beaches with Charges: Many hotels on the Lido have their private sections of the beach equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and sometimes even private changing cabins. Access is usually reserved for hotel guests, though some may offer day passes for a fee.

• Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities: Besides hotel-owned beaches, there are several beach clubs on the Lido that provide sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and other amenities for a daily entrance fee, offering a comfortable beach day experience.

Nearest beaches to Venice

• Lido di Venezia: Just a short vaporetto ride from St. Mark's Square, the Lido offers a mix of public and private beaches along its 11-kilometre coastline. It's the perfect seaside escape, with options ranging from vibrant beach life near the Gran Viale to quieter spots towards Alberoni.

• Pellestrina: This narrow island between the southern Lido and the Adriatic is less touristy and offers tranquil beaches and a glimpse into the local fishing culture. It's accessible by local ferry and is ideal for those seeking a more authentic beach experience.

• Jesolo: If you're willing to venture a bit further, Jesolo is a lively resort town just north of Venice, boasting a long, sandy beach dotted with bars, restaurants, and various entertainment options. It's popular with both locals and tourists for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive facilities.

• Caorle: For a picturesque beach day, the historic town of Caorle, with its colourful houses and charming old town, also offers lovely beaches. It's a bit further away but worth the trip for its unique scenery and family-friendly beaches.

These beach destinations near Venice provide a variety of seaside experiences, from the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Lido to the serene, untouched shores of Pellestrina, catering to all preferences for sun-seekers visiting Venice.

Local dishes in Venice

One of the great delights of Venice holidays is the opportunity to sample the city's delicious cuisine, from local flavours to tempting sweet treats.

Typical dishes

• Risotto al Nero di Seppia: This striking black risotto gets its colour from cuttlefish ink and is a common ingredient in Venetian cuisine.

• Sarde in Saor: A sweet-and-sour dish of sardines marinated with onions, pine nuts and raisins. Sarde in saor showcases Venice's love for diverse flavour combinations.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Baccala Mantecato: Creamed dried cod served on polenta or crusty bread is a beloved Venetian antipasto.

• Fritto Misto: Similar to the Spanish fritura, this platter of mixed fried fish and seafood is popular in Venetian trattorias.

Street food

• Cicchetti: Venice's take on tapas. These small snacks are perfect when you want to grab a quick bite while exploring. They can be found in every bacaro (wine bar) and include a variety of options such as crostini with different savoury toppings.

Sweets and desserts

For those with a sweet tooth, Venice has plenty of delicious offerings.

• Frittelle: These Venetian doughnuts filled with cream or fruit are typically enjoyed during Carnival season.

• Tiramisu: Claimed to have originated in Venice, this crowd-pleasing dessert features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese dusted with cocoa.

Local drinks

• Prosecco: Originating from the Veneto region, this sparkling wine is perfect as an aperitif or paired with seafood dishes.

• Spritz: Refreshing Aperol spritz, combining prosecco, Aperol and soda water, is the go-to local cocktail during the warm summer months.